2000 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2000 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Ford Focus.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ford Focus. 2008 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2000 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2000 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Focus | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
